Aruba: Snorkel Sail Tour with Shipwreck & Caribbean Lunch

Summary

Snorkeling Aruba’s shipwrecks and reefs with a breezy catamaran lunch

You’ll sail Aruba’s bright waters by catamaran, snorkel over shallow Catalina Bay and the haunting Antilla shipwreck with a local crew nearby if you need help. A fresh Caribbean lunch buffet and open bar keep things easygoing between stops—and there’s always another view or laugh waiting on deck.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of salty spray as we climbed onto the catamaran—my hair stuck to my face, but honestly, I didn’t care. Aruba’s water is this wild blue-green that almost looks fake until you’re right there over it. Our guide, Miguel, tossed out a joke about sunscreen (I should’ve listened better) while passing out snorkel gear. The boat music was just loud enough to make people smile but not drown out the sound of waves slapping the hull.

Catalina Bay was our first stop—shallow enough that even if you’re a bit nervous about snorkeling (like me), you can just float and watch these little yellow fish darting around. The water was cooler than I expected. At one point, someone asked for help with their mask and one of the crew hopped in without hesitation. There’s something comforting about that kind of easygoing help. Then we slid down this wobbly ladder back onto the deck—my knees made a weird noise but nobody noticed except maybe me.

Antilla shipwreck felt different—like swimming over some old secret. You could see parts of the wreck poking up through clouds of fish and coral, all these strange shapes shifting in the light. Miguel pointed out a parrotfish munching on something (he called it “reef salad,” which made us laugh). I tried to remember all the names: trumpet fish, snapper, maybe even a stingray gliding by if you looked close enough. It’s funny how quiet it gets underwater—even with everyone paddling around above you.

Lunch came after Malmok Bay—grilled chicken, rice with beans, this tangy slaw that tasted like sunshine (I know that sounds silly). The open bar meant rum punch for some and soda for others; I went for both because why not? Sunburn crept up on me while we ate, legs dangling off the side of the boat. Someone started singing along to Bob Marley and for a second it felt like time slowed down or maybe just stretched out in every direction.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day snorkel sail with lunch

• Board luxury catamaran
• Snorkel at Catalina Bay
• Snorkel at Antilla shipwreck
• Snorkel at Malmok Reef
• Enjoy Caribbean lunch buffet
• Drink from open bar

Top questions

How long is the Aruba snorkel sail tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from start to finish.

Which snorkel spots are included on this tour?

You’ll visit Catalina Bay, Antilla shipwreck, and Malmok Bay during the trip.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkel gear is included and instruction is available if needed.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Pickup is available from major hotels not within walking distance; contact Red Sail directly to arrange it.

What kind of lunch is served on board?

A Caribbean-inspired buffet lunch is included along with an open bar offering cocktails, sodas, and juices.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or children?

Catalina Bay is shallow and ideal for beginners; children are welcome but non-swimmers must wear life vests arranged in advance.

What marine life might I see during snorkeling?

You could spot parrotfish, angelfish, stingrays, snapper, trumpet fish, sea anemones, tube sponges, and more among coral formations.

What’s included

Your half-day includes use of snorkel gear with instruction if needed, three distinct snorkel stops at Catalina Bay, Antilla shipwreck, and Malmok Bay—all from a luxury catamaran—with morning snacks served before a full Caribbean lunch buffet plus an open bar stocked with cocktails and soft drinks. Hotel pickup can be arranged from most major hotels outside walking distance; just bring your swimsuit and towel along for the ride.